Hamas issued a scathing statement in which it rejected U.S. criticism of its handling of negotiations aimed at ending the nearly two-year-long war in Gaza.

CAIRO (AP) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Friday his government was considering “alternative options” to ceasefire talks with Hamas after Israel and the U.S. recalled their negotiating teams, throwing the future of the negotiations into further uncertainty.

Special envoy Steve Witkoff is expected to travel to Europe and possibly Middle East for meetings on issues including the Israel-Hamas conflict.

President Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, was heading to the Middle East as the U.S. tries once again to reach a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, a breakthrough that has eluded the administration for months as conditions worsen in Gaza.

US envoy says Hamas showing 'lack of desire' to reach a ceasefire. 'Hamas does not appear to be coordinated or acting in good faith.'

Hamas "didn't really want to make a deal" on a new Gaza cease-fire and hostage release, Trump said after the U.S. and Israel pulled negotiations from Qatar.

U.S. Middle East peace envoy Steve Witkoff said on Thursday that the Trump administration has decided to bring its team home from Gaza ceasefire talks for consultations.